Accused 'excellent' school head

A former school head accused of tipping water over a pupil to flatten his Mohican hair has been described as having "incredible vision".

Russell Moon, 50, formerly of Phillip Morant School, Colchester, had "drive and ambition" the General Teaching Council hearing was told.

Christopher Manning-Press, a school governor, told the hearing Mr Moon was considered "an asset".

The former head denies charges of unacceptable professional misconduct.

He is accused of behaving inappropriately towards a member of staff, a parent and two students.

Electric shock

Mr Moon left Philip Morant School in April 2005 after six years in charge.

Karen Bullimore, a senior teacher, told the GTC Panel: "He had an incredible vision for the school.

"At that time the school was absolutely outstanding and I think the vision he had and the vision he presented to the governors was excellent."

The panel was previously told Mr Moon poured water over a pupil's head to "show off" in the presence of senior colleagues.

The former head denied this saying he very carefully used a small amount of liquid to wash out gel.

Mr Moon is also alleged to have been rude and aggressive to a parent whose son suffered an electric shock in an accident at the school.

He is also said to have screamed abuse at a female student during a meeting with her parents and spoken inappropriately to a teacher.

The hearing was adjourned until 9 November when the panel is due to give its decisions.